The Carbon Trust, an independent expert in sustainable strategies and technologies, has validated the methodology and processes that Agility uses to generate carbon footprint reports for logistics customers.
The Carbon Trust’s assurance allows Agility to demonstrate that its carbon reporting methodology and processes comply with the organization’s reporting guidance for transparency and accuracy. To receive assurance, Agility developed a methodology to ensure the accurate monitoring, quantifying and reporting of CO2 emissions data from the movement of customer cargo. This methodology was audited extensively and approved by the Carbon Trust, and it has now been incorporated into Agility’s carbon reporting processes.
Agility has been providing free carbon footprint reports to customers since 2009, enabling them to track and reduce the amount of CO2 emissions created in their supply chains. With the Carbon Trust assurance, Agility’s customers can now use the free CO2 reports to offset emissions resulting from the transportation of their shipments. This information is also available to small and medium-sized logistics customers (SMEs) using Shipa Freight, the online freight service powered by Agility. Shipa Freight customers will get free CO2 emissions estimates for their shipments when they receive quotes and invoices.
Frank Clary, Agility’s Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, said: “Agility and others in the logistics industry are determined to address the challenge of climate change. The Carbon reporting that is validated by an internationally recognized expert such as the Carbon Trust is a key part of this. Armed with accurate information, our customers can understand their carbon footprint and take steps to create cleaner, and in some cases zero-emission supply chains by offsetting reported CO2 emissions.”
Clary said that for the first time SMEs can also make use of carbon-estimating technology to scrutinize their supply chains and choose shipment options that reduce their emissions. “Shipa Freight, our online freight platform, provides SME customers with this information even at the quote stage. That helps them make informed, accurate decisions for their business and the environment.”
Hugh Jones, Managing Director, the Carbon Trust, said: "Companies are starting to pay a lot of attention to the carbon emissions in their supply chains, especially in areas with the highest impacts such as logistics. By taking a best practice approach to emissions measurement, Agility is able to meet this demand by supplying its customers with accurate, credible data which they can rely on to understand, manage and offset carbon emissions. At the same time, Agility’s Carbon Trust-assured measurement should unlock new opportunities, demonstrating Agility’s competitive advantage in offering carbon cutting solutions, which are often synonymous with efficiency and effective cost savings."
Agility uses sustainable business practices in its own operations and works with customers and suppliers to develop and adopt sustainable practices. EcoVadis, an independent organization that evaluates and rates corporate sustainability programs, recently ranked Agility in the top 4 percent in environmental performance in its industry.